When you hear the name Prada, what is it that comes to mind? If it’s cutting-edge Italian fashion, must-have accessories and luxury items of clothing, you’re definitely on the right track. Why is Prada so in demand when it comes to the world of high fashion? In order to fully appreciate the brand for all of its amazing achievements, it’s time we cracked open the history books.
Courtesy of models.com
How Prada Began
Just over a century ago, the world-famous fashion brand Prada came to be. Founded back in 1913 by two brothers Martino and Mario Prada, the company as we know it today is a luxury Italian label specialising in selling luxury clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories for both men and women.
A company which started as a leather goods shop selling English-imported handbags soon transformed into a high-end Milan retail store. The ‘Fratelli Prada’ (Italian for Prada brothers) then expanded their goods and wares to include a range of luxury leather accessories and handbags, beauty cases, travelling trunks and various other trinkets.
Birth of a Luxury Fashion Label
As the Prada brand grew in popularity, it was embraced quickly by European aristocracy thanks to its refined materials and sophisticated manufacture of goods. Just five years after the business was launched, Prada was proud to become the ‘Official Supplier to the Royal Italian Household’ in 1919. Subsequently, a luxury fashion label was born which has been at the forefront of high-end Italian fashion for almost one hundred years since.
Preserving the Legacy
In the early days of the company, Mario Prada stood by a firm belief that women should not participate in business practices. At the time, he would not allow any of his female family members to work in the company, however, he would need to change his mind when his son showed absolutely no interest in the business whatsoever. Having a change of heart, he turned the reins of the company over to his daughter Luisa. The current head of Prada and granddaughter of Mario Prada, Miuccia Prada, became part of the business in 1970 and in 1977, inherited it from her mother. Since taking over the company, Miuccia Prada has introduced new ranges of shoes and womenswear, launched an official website, opened a flagship store in Milan and led the company to the success that it enjoys today.
The Biggest Name in Fashion
It is no surprise that today, Prada is considered the biggest name in fashion. In spite of the 2008 economic recession, Prada managed to stay afloat as an international luxury clothing and accessories brand. Since 2013, Prada has become a household name and in 2006 inspired a novel and movie of the same name: The Devil Wears Prada, which added to the company’s popularity and success. Although Mario Prada was reluctant to allow women to join the business back in 1913, the future has taken an unexpected turn with his granddaughter Miuccia helping his vision grow in leaps and bounds.
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